This final installment continues with some general pearls of wisdom, themes and lessons we’ve observed from many forward-thinking, successful family farm businesses.

The top performers in most every agricultural business sector generally Walk The Talk. Whereas low performers tend to just talk the talk…as in...Big Hat, No Cattle.

As advisors to agricultural producers, we see this all the time. Why the big difference? That’s kind of easy. People are people. We’re not all perfect and this exemplifies itself in business performance. Most have the same obstacles as well as the same opportunities. Some people are simply better at execution and make their own luck. Others aren’t.

A few weeks ago, the Get Out of Your Comfort Zone article shared some general themes and lessons we’ve observed from many forward-thinking, successful family farm businesses. This week continues with more thought-provoking examples.

The roller-coaster ride of business ownership provides many chances to learn how to bounce off the lows in your business cycles, which is just as important as profits.Maximizing profits during cycle highs is just as important as minimizing losses during low cycles.

Lessons From The Field

Over the years and with enough observation, general themes become apparent can become learning lessons for your family farm. Striving for continuous improvement is the dominant characterization of most financially and organizationally successful companies. Consider the following thoughts and standards and see how you and your family-owned business compare.